A scanning electron microscopic study on some morphological properties of three local silkworm breeds (Alaca, Bursa Beyazı and Hatay Sarısı)

Abstract

In this study the cocoon, egg and silk gland of three local silkworm breeds were analysed by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The egg and cocoon morphology of Bursa Beyazı was observed as different from other breeds. The cocoon fibers were tightly packed in the cocoons of Bursa Beyazı which have a higher silk quality whereas the fibers were loosely packed in the cocoons of Alaca and Hatay Sarısı. In addition, the motif structure on Alaca's egg surface was irregular. Interestingly, there was a regular motif structure on the Bursa Beyazı's and Hatay Sarısı's egg surface.